MACON, Ga. — In honor of summer learning week, a Macon non-profit is hosting youth development activities. The Girls Dig Deeper Initiative empowers girls ages 13 to 17 by providing them with leadership development resources. The program will kick off Tuesday, July 16.
Janyla Reynolds, 14, is a rising sophomore at Central High School is one of the program mentees. She said as an introvert it has given her confidence to come out of her shell and make strides in bettering herself.
"It helps me find positive things about myself and turn negative things into positive situations," Reynolds said.
She said she's been involved with GDDI for nearly a year, and she's excited to meet new people through the summer enrichment program.
"I'm very excited, it's gonna be like having some more new sisters," Reynolds said.
Reynolds said she appreciates her mentor, who she jokingly calls 'auntie', Najiva Timothee. Timothee is the program's founder.
"She makes me get out more, makes me talk to more people and just get to know more about people," Reynolds said while smiling.
Timothee said she was inspired to pursue this passion project after being reminded of how much her former mentors had a strong influence in her life. She piloted the initiative in 2019. The program is now a two-time grant recipient from Macon Violence Prevention, another local program committed to civic impact.
"For me, growing up I had mentors in my life and I understand the importance of having someone there to guide and support you," Timothee said. "So that motivated me to do the same for the young people here in Macon."
Timothee said she wants to to help address adverse issues the teenage population may often face.
"Some of them are dealing with peer pressure, anxiety, some of them may have behavioral issues and you know teacher students relationships in school," Timothee said.
Reynolds said she encourages other girls to participate in the program.
"Y'all should go ahead, come out the house, come see it, cause its very fun to do and there's a lot of activity," Reynolds said.
Timothee said girls will learn how to set goals, prioritize healthy friendships and minding their mental health. The program will host events through the end of the week. Registration closes Monday, July 15 at 11:59 p.m.